Representing the faculty, Spanish teacher Jennifer Kirk talked of how her students always “put one foot in front of the other.” She described each of the student’s lives as being like a race.

“You will exceed everywhere you go because you are ready,” Kirk told the graduates, and based on their expressions seemed to connect with them.

The Ryan King Award, presented to a student exhibiting perseverance, was awarded to Gabe Roderick, who received a heartfelt applause as he received his award. Sophia Mitrokostas was awarded the Gretchen Buntschuh Literary Scholarship, presented to a graduating senior who has demonstrated a genuine interest in literature and a love of language.

Stephen McDowell, an English teacher and a favorite of many, had nothing but positive remarks and advice for the graduating class.

“Do good, every day do good,” he said.

McDowell had the crowd and students chuckling with his remark about his own degree: “I’m convinced my degree was given to me by Santa Claus.”

Then it was time to hear from the students.

Cameron Bowes told of how “each student was individually molded by members of faculty.”

Bowes talked about self-awareness and concluded with his plans for the future. After being accepted to universities, he decided it was his duty to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps, earning him a standing ovation from some.

Ryan Pasco said that he is “leaving a part of myself behind,” the “old him,” as he referred to it. He pondered the thought of the diploma in the first place, saying it is just a piece of paper and effort versus recognition should be taken into account as well.

“Do what is right,” Pasco urged his fellow class members. Before thanking his teachers, he added, “It is never too late to make amends.”

As has been the practice in the nine previous commencements, the ceremony ended with the ringing of the bell as family, faculty and friends welcomed the members of Sturgis Charter Public School’s Class of 2011 into the next chapter of their lives and a new world of possibilities.

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